Fashion has always been a space that thrives on rebellion, and today’s spike trend is no exception. Whether it’s spiked chokers, leather suits or studded belts, elements of punk-inspired fashion speak to a larger conversation about resistance, empowerment and individuality. But what does this resurgence really mean in our current climate?

Punk originally emerged in the 1970s as a countercultural response to corporate dominance, government control and societal norms—not just post-war poverty as some might think. It was a movement grounded in anti-establishment values, raw expression and a rejection of conformity. Today, this ethos persists but is being reinterpreted for a new generation. Figures like Olivia Rodrigo and Willow Smith lead the way, reclaiming punk aesthetics and injecting them with emotional depth and modern relevance. Their take on spikes and studs feels less about corporate subversion and more about personal empowerment. It raises an important question: has punk evolved from rebellion to a symbol of individuality, or has it always been both?

Dior’s SS25 haute couture collection perfectly encapsulates this shift. With leather gloves, sharp cuts, high boots, pointy shoes, mohawks, spiked brows and dramatic makeup by Peter Phillips, the collection pairs punk’s raw edge with a touch of fantasy that represents a developing concept of femininity in clothing. Guido Palau’s sculptural hairstyles drive home this juxtaposition of rebellion and self-expression. This isn’t just a nostalgic nod to punk—it’s a reimagining that blends tradition with innovation.

And it’s not just Dior. Valentino has long incorporated spikes into its designs, proving that this aesthetic has moved beyond its underground origins to become a mainstay in high fashion. But here’s the paradox: Can punk remain punk when it’s on the Dior runway or in Valentino’s collections? Or does its essence lie in its ability to constantly evolve and redefine itself?

Spikes are more than just an accessory—they’re a statement. Whether on the runway or the streets, they remind us that rebellion is beautiful, and self-expression is limitless. The spike craze might just be proof that punk isn’t going anywhere—it’s just finding new ways to speak to the times.